2.) Ask questions. In your first year, everything is new and we don't expect you to know everything. Don't be afraid to ask your instructors, your peer mentors, and our excellent staff any questions you have. We're happy to help.

3.) Make friends. You'll meet a lot of new people every semester here, and some are sure to become lifelong friends. Exchange cell phone numbers, become Facebook friends, arrange study sessions... soon you'll have a whole network of people to support you.

4.) Study hard. College courses are very different from high school classes. Grades might be determined by only a few exams, you're expected to keep up with the readings, you'll do a lot of writing, and you'll need to be able to apply what you know instead of just memorizing facts. But it's OK--if you're having a hard time or need some study strategies, take advantage of our academic resources, which your tuition dollars help to support.

5.) Have a plan. You have a lot of choices to make about your future while you're here. Make sure you're fulfilling all of the USP, degree, and major requirements so that you can graduate successfully and on time. It helps to talk to someone on a regular basis to make sure you're on the right track.

6.) Stay healthy. Be sure you're getting enough sleep, exercise and are making healthy food choices. If you start feeling sick, seek out help. A long illness can really make it difficult to keep on top of your coursework!

7.) Find your place. As you live and study here, you'll find places on campus where you feel comfortable and can get a lot of work done without distractions. Maybe it's in your dorm room. Or a particular table in Polk Library. Or near the fireplace in Reeve. Find a place and stick with it!

8.) Talk it out. Coming to college, especially if you've never lived away from home before, is a big deal. You might feel homesick, lonely, depressed, or stressed, and all of that can affect your coursework Know that there are excellent people here ready to help you through whatever you're feeling in your personal and/or academic life.

9.) Explore your options. Your first year is a great time to take courses in a wide variety of fields so that you can find something that will fuel your future. When you find your passion, talk to your adviser and your instructors about courses that will help you and find out more about jobs that are waiting down the line.

10.) Have fun. This is college -- it will be one of the best times of your life! Work hard, but enjoy these years. You'll be amazed at how quickly they pass...